BNSF performs maintenance and capacity improvements in Iowa and Illinois

BNSF plans to invest an estimated $154 million on maintenance and capacity improvements in both Iowa and Illinois this year.

The estimated $93 million in Illinois will include 1,216 miles of track surfacing and undercutting work and the replacement of 34 miles of rail and about 270,000 crossties.

"BNSF's investments will improve our ability to provide rail freight services to Illinois businesses and communities and will expand opportunities to create more jobs and growth for the Illinois economy," said Matthew Rose, chairman and chief executive officer.

The estimated $61 million in Iowa continues work on the Burlington Bridge by replacing existing through-truss spans and also begin work to replace BNSF's bridge over the Missouri River between Plattsmouth, Neb., and Pacific Jct., Iowa. Additionally, BNSF will perform 315 miles of track surfacing and undercutting work, as well as 27 miles of rail and about 183,000 crossties.